How to Draw Anime Clouds

Shading in clouds towards the bottom gives the impression of future rain.

Creating anime clouds adds realism to the scenery. Clouds added to the background will not interfere with the character role but can help to create depth, especially if positioned behind the character. Or have an anime cloud hanging above the character's head. This type of cloud does add to the character's role in representing trouble or perhaps gloom. If the scene is animated the cloud could follow the person around.

Instructions

1. Start with a basic oval shape. Anime clouds are basically oval shaped. Make them narrow or big like a circle.

2. Sketch in additional oval shapes around the first oval so that part of the oval intersects with the first oval. These shapes will add depth and give a fluffy effect.

3. Combine the shapes by erasing lines that are intersecting with the first oval to create one cloud shape with the surrounding ovals.

4. Create dark rainy clouds by adding shade. Making the lower areas darker than the top areas will give the impression of an imminent storm.

References

• "You Can Draw Manga!" Ben Dunn 2005

Resources

• How to Draw Cartoons Online: Cartoon Clouds